What is Screen Magnification Software?

Screen magnification software enlarges the size of information displayed on a computer screen. By magnifying the information on the computer screen, these types of programs provide the access needed to make that information usable to those who have difficulty seeing the screen. Most screen magnification software has the flexibility to magnify the full screen, parts of the screen or provide a magnifying glass view of the area around the cursor or mouse pointer. Programs can automatically follow the cursor, magnifying the area around it. Today’s full-featured screen magnifiers can work with most screen components such as text, icons, buttons, multiple programs, title bars, and backgrounds.

Bigshot

Bigshot allows you to focus on your work without straining to see it. With a magnified image you can view the screen from a comfortable distance, decreasing eye strain, irritation, and fatigue. Bigshot gives your eyes the stamina to work longer and more effectively on your computer.

Bigshot features:

• 20 steps of magnification from 105% to 200%
• Full Screen and Active window, zooming
• Intelligent tracking of all program activity; keeps important information in view
• Change magnification levels using the mouse wheel
• Always-on-top toolbar and tray icon for quick access to settings
   

Zoomtext Xtra

Zoomtext Xtra is a family of adaptive software designed to specifically meet the needs of the visually impaired. The Zoomtext program includes two adaptive technologies, screen magnification and screen reading, providing complete access to all Microsoft Windows applications. The program is designed in two levels to meet the needs of users. Level 1 is primarily geared for screen magnification alone while level 2 integrates magnification with screen reading. ( See “What is screen reader software?” )

Zoomtext Xtra Level 1 features:

• Magnification levels 2x to 16x
• Advanced edge-smoothing for great looking text at any power
• 8 different zoom windows for full and partial screen enlargement
• Cursor enhancement make find the cursor a snap
• Talking setup program for quick and easy installation.
   

Zoomtext Xtra Level 2 features:

• All the features of level 1
• Fully synchronized magnification and screen reading
• Includes “DocReader” for automatic reading of complete Documents
• Speech settings for adjusting voice, rate and pitch
• “Speak it” feature uses point and click interface to speak on-screen text
   

Sample Screen Magnification Screen Views